As ITV’s landmark 7 Up documentary series reaches its final instalment, 70 Up, Guardian readers reflect on how the programme has shaped their understanding of themselves and society. Following the same people every seven years since 1964, the series has offered an unusually sustained portrait of ageing, class, ambition, relationships, hardship and personal change.

Readers describe being moved by participants’ struggles and achievements, particularly Neil’s mental-health crises, Suzy’s growing confidence, Bruce’s search for meaning and Nick’s emphasis on family over material success. One viewer became a sociologist after encountering the series, while others praised its portrayal of changing social attitudes, including the limited attention given to women’s careers, and said it had prompted them to reassess their own lives and losses.